Ontario is home to over 150 wineries, each with its unique flavors, aromas, and history. The province produces a vast range of wines, from crisp whites to full-bodied reds, and has won many international awards in recent years. In this article, we explore some of the best wineries in Ontario, with insights and perspectives from experts in the field.

Peller Estates Winery

Located on the Niagara Peninsula, Peller Estates Winery is known for its luxurious Icewine, crisp Riesling, and award-winning Cabernet Franc. With a stunning view of the vineyards and Lake Ontario, the winery offers an excellent range of tasting options, from intimate tours to grand tastings. According to John Szabo, a Master Sommelier and wine expert, \”Peller Estates is a must-visit for anyone interested in Icewine and premium cool-climate wines.\”

Stratus Vineyards

Stratus Vineyards, also situated in the Niagara Peninsula, is renowned for its unique, eco-friendly approach to winemaking. The winery uses geothermal heating and cooling, as well as renewable energy, to produce exceptional wines with minimal environmental impact. The tasting room at Stratus Vineyards is a work of art, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the vineyards and a stunning spiral staircase. \”Stratus is at the forefront of sustainable and biodynamic winemaking in Ontario,\” says Jennifer Huether, a Master Sommelier.

Thirty Bench Wine Makers

Named after the original vineyard site, Thirty Bench Wine Makers produces some of Ontario\’s finest Riesling, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay. The winery\’s philosophy is simple: \”Great wine is grown, not made.\” Visitors can enjoy a variety of tours, tastings, and food pairings, including the popular \”Red, White, and Bleu\” package, which pairs three wines with three artisan cheeses. \”Thirty Bench is one of my favorite wineries on the Niagara Escarpment,\” says Matt Steeves, a wine blogger and critic.

Norman Hardie Winery

Situated in Prince Edward County, Norman Hardie Winery is known for its elegant, Burgundian-style Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The winery employs traditional winemaking techniques, such as hand-harvesting and wild yeast fermentation, to create wines that are true expressions of the terroir. Visitors can enjoy tastings in the rustic tasting room, which also features a wood-fired pizza oven. \”Norman Hardie is one of the pioneers of the wine industry in Prince Edward County,\” says David Lawrason, a wine critic and Judge.

Additional Wineries:

Closson Chase Vineyards

Closson Chase Vineyards, located in Prince Edward County, focuses on cool-climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The winery has won numerous awards for its wines, which are elegant, complex, and vibrant.

Malivoire Wine Company

Malivoire Wine Company, situated in the Niagara Peninsula, is a family-owned and operated winery that specializes in Chardonnay, Gamay Noir, and Pinot Noir. The winery\’s focus on sustainable farming and minimal intervention winemaking creates wines that are pure and expressive of their terroir.

Henry of Pelham Family Estate Winery

Henry of Pelham Family Estate Winery, also located in the Niagara Peninsula, produces a wide range of award-winning wines, including Riesling, Pinot Noir, and Baco Noir. The winery\’s beautiful estate offers tours, tastings, and events throughout the year.

Karlo Estates

Karlo Estates, situated in Prince Edward County, is known for its unique, handcrafted wines, including the popular \”Van Alstine Red\” blend. The winery\’s commitment to sustainable farming and minimal intervention winemaking results in wines that are complex, nuanced, and full of character.

Ontario\’s wineries offer a delightful blend of history, passion, and innovation, making them a must-visit for wine enthusiasts and novices alike. With the many varietals and styles available, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So, the next time you\’re in Ontario, be sure to visit one of these fantastic wineries and discover the beauty of Ontario\’s wine country.